Supporters Celebrate Outside Courthouse After Mixed Verdict in High-Profile Trial of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs
Crowds gathered outside a federal courthouse in a scene that quickly turned from anticipation to celebration after music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was acquitted of several serious charges, though he was still found responsible for other offenses.
Fans and onlookers erupted in cheers, chanting “Let Puffy go” after learning the jury had cleared Combs of the most serious accusations. In a moment that quickly gained attention online, groups of supporters were seen dancing, holding signs, and wearing custom shirts that read “A FREAKO IS NOT A R.I.C.O.”—a reference to the dismissed conspiracy charges. Others sported apparel from Combs’ own fashion line, Sean John.
The celebration, however, quickly drew the attention of law enforcement. Riot police stepped in after the scene grew chaotic, with revelers spraying baby oil into the crowd and impromptu performers taking center stage. One man was seen enthusiastically waving a small bottle of oil—similar to items shown during court proceedings—and applying it to another shirtless supporter.
“Basically, today the jury decided that a freako is not a RICO,” one woman told reporters, referencing the legal term for racketeering charges that had been dropped.
Others in the crowd shared more nuanced reactions. One man, though visibly relieved by the partial verdict, said, “Hopefully he does get some help. Seek some help. Stay away from the lifestyle and the chaos.”
Despite being cleared of the racketeering and trafficking accusations—charges that carried the most severe implications—Combs, 55, was found guilty of two counts related to transporting individuals across state lines for inappropriate conduct, violating the federal Mann Act. Each count carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal custody, and prosecutors have indicated they will seek the full 20-year sentence.
While supporters outside the courtroom celebrated what they viewed as a partial victory, the consequences of the guilty verdict loomed large. Inside the courtroom, Combs was seen exchanging emotional words with his family. “I’ll be home soon,” he said, smiling and gesturing toward his loved ones, including his mother Janice, 85, and all of his children—among them his youngest daughter, Love.
The trial, which lasted nearly two months, saw jury deliberations stretch across three days, totaling over 13 hours. The jury was under pressure to deliver a verdict before the upcoming Independence Day weekend or face additional court sessions on a normally closed Thursday.
Though acquitted on the most serious allegations, the verdict was not universally celebrated. Some fans expressed concern over the remaining convictions. “I feel like he was guilty, and I’m upset that more didn’t happen,” one woman said. Another stated bluntly, “Nobody’s above the law, no matter how much money you think you have.”
Critics of the decision, including attorney Doug Wigdor, who represents Combs’ former partner Cassie Ventura, emphasized that the outcome still represented accountability. “We’re pleased that he’s finally been held responsible for two federal offenses,” Wigdor said. “This case proved that change is long overdue.”
Wigdor also praised Ventura, stating that her willingness to speak out helped bring the issue into public view. “Although the jury didn’t find Combs responsible for every allegation, Cassie paved the way for these findings. She helped shed light on a pattern of behavior that had gone unchecked.”
Despite requests from Combs’ legal team to allow him to await sentencing from his residence in Miami on a $1 million bond, the judge has not yet made a decision. Both parties were instructed to submit final arguments in writing by 1 p.m. on Wednesday. Until then, Combs will remain in custody.
The verdict—and the chaotic, emotional scenes that followed—have sparked renewed public conversation around celebrity accountability, justice system fairness, and how wealth and fame influence perception. Supporters see it as a sign of vindication, while critics argue that the ruling didn’t go far enough.
Regardless of stance, all eyes now turn to the sentencing phase, where the outcome could shape not only Combs’ future, but also public trust in how justice is served in cases involving high-profile individuals.